Oron is an experimental alarm clockdesigned to wake users instantly by inducing a sense of mentalheaviness. The concept challenges the conventional approach of merelyalerting the user and instead explores how discomfort, cognitiveload, and interaction can encourage immediate awakening.
Theproject began with the question: “How might an alarm clock create aheavy yet instant waking experience?” Various sensory stimuli weretested—sound, light, electricity—alongside physical forms andinteractions. Early prototypes examined “heavy” physical levers,pulling motions, and falling objects, but feedback indicated thatphysical weight alone did not produce the intended urgency. This ledthe team to investigate mental heaviness, requiring users to think,react, or problem-solve immediately upon waking.
Thefinal prototype combines sound with an interactive task. The usermust complete a simple cognitive action that is giving a high-five tothe hand-shaped artifact to deactivate the alarm. Every incorrectinteraction triggers a shock and increases the sound, while only thecorrect one deactivates it. This interaction blends familiarity withsubtle resistance, creating a moment that demands presence andintention.
Usertesting helped guide the design. Some ideas like dropping balls orusing game-like actions were fun but not realistic for everyday use.Others, like light and electric feedback, worked well but needed tobe used carefully. These lessons helped shape the final design, whichmixes clarity, fun, and brain engagement.
Oronis intended for individuals who struggle with traditional alarms. Itturns waking up into an active task, not just something that happens.Through this project, the team learned how design can change evensmall daily moments, like getting out of bed.
